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OVERCOMING ADDICTION
I was privileged to have found myself in the midst of some very inspiring youths in a university fellowship, and they were discussing among themselves various topics, one of which had to do with addictions. As I listened to them, I thought of writing something on this topic.
Addiction is a complex and often chronic brain disease that causes people to compulsively use substances or engage in behaviors, even though they know it's harming them.
It typically involves three key components:
Craving:
Individuals with addiction experience intense, often uncontrollable cravings for the substance or behavior of choice. These cravings can dominate their thoughts and drive them to seek out the addictive substance or behavior.
Loss of Control:
People struggling with addiction find it challenging to control their use or engagement. They may want to quit or cut down but struggle to do so, even when they are aware of the negative consequences.
Continued Use Despite Harm:
Despite experiencing adverse consequences in various aspects of their lives, such as health, relationships, work, or legal issues, individuals with addiction persist in their substance use or behavior.
Addiction can manifest in various forms, including:
Substance Addiction:
Involves substances like drugs (e.g., alcohol, opioids, cocaine) and may lead to physical dependence.
Behavioral Addiction:
Focuses on compulsive behaviors, such as gambling, gaming, or shopping, that provide a reward or pleasure.
The development of addiction is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It is not solely a matter of weak willpower or moral failing. It's a medical condition that affects the brain's reward system, making it difficult for individuals to quit without proper support and treatment.
Treatment for addiction often involves a combination of medical, psychological, and social interventions. It's essential to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, as it can have severe physical, emotional, and social consequences.
Overcoming addiction, especially from a spiritual perspective, can be a challenging journey.
Here are some steps that can help, along with scriptural references.
Seek a divine help:
The Christian faith emphasizes surrendering to the power of the Holy Spirit - our divine and sustainable help. For Christians, this could be found in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Prayer and Meditation (Power the Soul):
Regular prayer and meditation can provide strength and inner peace.
Injecting God's word into our imagination is a first stem to getting rid of addictions. If we can imagine the word, we can inject power into our soul.
Storing God's word in our memory is another sure way to getting rid of addictions. It helps you retain the word in your soul and as a result get rid of addictive tendencies. What rules your memory influences your imagination. Whatever controls your imagination create addictions or inspires dedication.
Study God's word to inspire the intellect. Search the word until you gain access to the spirit of the word - rhema. This is a way to inspire the intellect. This is the birth place of wisdom - the ability to appropriately use acquired knoeldge - or whatever has been stored from God's word in our memroy.
Crave for a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit to inspire the emotion. Our emotions get us connected, addicted, or dedicated to things we have imagined, memorized, or searched out. At this level, we need the fear of God to be entrenched in our hearts. Network with godly or God fearing people. Make the sanctuary of the most high your dweling place. Emabrace prayer, fasting and giving!
Make quality decisions that establish your Holy Ghost-inspired dedication.
Community and Support:
Seek out a supportive community or fellowship group.
In Christianity, this is akin to the fellowship in your local fellowship, student fellowship, or church. Galatians 6:2 says, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."
Self-Reflection:
Introspection can lead to understanding the root causes of addiction.
Forgiveness:
Forgive yourself and others. In Christ, Matthew 6:14-15 states, "For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."
Healthy Lifestyle:
Focus on a healthy mind and body.
Seek Professional Help:
It's essential to combine spiritual practices with professional addiction treatment when necessary. Many faith-based organizations offer counseling and support groups.
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